Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) has appointed Dr. Michael Chen as dean of its School of Liberal Arts, effective July 1, 2026, announced Dr. Chavonda Mills, senior vice president for Academic Affairs and provost.
“Dr. Chen brings both deep experience and a genuine commitment to student success,” Mills said. “His leadership will help shape the next chapter of the School of Liberal Arts in meaningful and innovative ways.”
A first-generation college graduate and immigrant, Chen credits his personal journey with shaping his approach to higher education.
“I have experienced firsthand the transformative power of education,” he said. “GGC’s mission and its diverse student population strongly resonate with me.”
Chen joins GGC from Kennesaw State University, where he serves as associate dean for student success and engagement in the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He previously chaired the Department of Psychology at Eastern Kentucky University and earned a doctorate in experimental psychology from the University of Kentucky.
An accomplished teacher-scholar, Chen has earned multiple honors, including the 2025 Outstanding Teaching Award from KSU’s Department of Psychological Science and the 2021 Outstanding Undergraduate Mentor Award from the Kentucky Psychological Foundation. His research focuses on teaching and learning, with publications in leading academic journals.
A global perspective
Born in Taiwan, Chen’s early years exposed him to a range of cultures and languages. He later moved to Belize, where he experienced a blend of Spanish, African, Mayan and British influences, before eventually settling in Kentucky.
“Moving across cultures and continents taught me to be flexible, adaptable and empathetic,” he said.
An unexpected path to teaching
Chen initially pursued a degree in biology with plans to attend dental school. Financial barriers led him in a different direction. After returning to Taiwan to complete mandatory military service, he was assigned to teach English at a remote elementary school.
That experience proved pivotal.
“I discovered a passion for teaching,” he said. “I began incorporating motivational and cognitive strategies into my lessons, which sparked my interest in psychology.”
He later pursued a doctorate in the field.
A strong alignment with GGC’s mission
Chen said GGC’s commitment to access and student success aligns closely with his own values and experiences.
“The opportunity to support first-generation and diverse students is especially meaningful to me,” he said.
He plans to begin his tenure by engaging with the campus community through listening sessions to better understand opportunities and challenges. From there, he will focus on strategies that support student retention and academic success.
Rooted in family
Outside of work, Chen enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife of 20 years have three children.
“When I am not at work, you can find me at a swimming pool or on a soccer field, cheering for my children,” he said.